As weather heats up, so does fancy footwear

Stepping out in style this spring and summer has never been easier. The latest shoe trends inspired from the runways come in a variety of styles, colors and heights.

Leslie Williams

Stepping out in style this spring and summer has never been easier. The latest shoe trends inspired from the runways come in a variety of styles, colors and heights.

Whether it's sky-high heels and wedges or lower, more wearable flats and sandals, there's sure to be something for every foot fashionista!

Espadrilles, '70s platforms, summer booties and flats are the key, must-own styles to have for the upcoming season, according to the website of fashion wholesale and retail company Nine West.

"The great thing about fashion right now is they are really making the shoes more comfortable and a lot more fun," said Danielle Pflederer, owner of Azura Boutique in Peoria Heights, Ill. "You can be as neutral or colorful or as laid back and glamorous as you want. It's all really OK depending on how you put it together."

She said low sandals are "very in." If you're going to don a shoe with a heel, the wedge and "big, chunky" platforms are the way to go.

"A lot of the wedges have intriguing wood designs and a lot of beading," Pflederer said of the natural element trend.

Pairing the unique wedges with pieces from the new line of neutral clothing coming out for the spring and summer will certainly make a statement. Another popular trend is to mate tan, ivory and taupe-colored apparel with sandals or flip-flops covered with bling.

"Crystal and jewel toned flip-flops are always a big thing in the summer," said Jade Venovich, owner of Belle Mie boutique located in Peoria, Ill.

Her store carries a brand of sparkly jewel and crystal encrusted sandals called Mystique, which ironically is the same name as this publication. She can barely keep them on the shelf because of their popularity, despite the more than $130 price tag.

"They have literally been walking themselves out the door," said Venovich of the easy-to-wear slip-ons that add instant glam to any outfit. "I sold eight pairs in one day."

Venovich said other fashionable finds this season are ballet flats "because they're cute with skinnys and dresses." Another favorite is lace-up booties.

Neutral shades are again taking center stage this year in women's shoes. But color is also making a splash. Bright hues of coral, orange, fuchsia, pink, turquoise and yellow also are a must.

"It's all across the board," Venovich said of the 2011 shoe trend.

Pflederer agreed: "It's one extreme to the other. Shoes are tending to go more natural or old Hollywood glam with glitz and glitter. Dress for your body and what feels good."